Arsenal boss Arsène Wenger is keen on a shock move for Spain and Real Madrid right-back Álvaro Arbeloa. Should a deal materialize for the former Liverpool man, he will become Wenger’s third signing in the right-back position.

However, it is expected that the 31-year-old will be seen as an experienced cover across a number of defensive roles, often being asked to provide cover in both full-back and central defensive slots for his current club with great confidence.

In recent weeks Wenger has dipped into his pocket to sign fellow right-backs Mathieu Debuchy and Calum Chambers, the latter also being seen as a versatile individual that will be given time to adapt to his new surroundings.

With Carl Jenkinson’s departure to West Ham on loan and club-captain Thomas Vermaelen’s future in considerable doubt, in the event of the Belgian’s exit, Arsenal will be on the lookout for a possible versatile replacement that adds depth to the squad.

His former Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez is also keen to bring the World Cup winner to Napoli. With the pair having worked together at Real Zaragoza, Benitez took over the hot-seat in Merseyside after leaving Valencia, securing Arbeloa as one of his first signings in 2007.

Arbeloa will bring stability and experience; he is rated highly under Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti despite not being a guaranteed starter at the Santiago Bernabéu due to the emergence of Dani Carvajal’s excellent form. Arbeloa has two years left remaining on his contract in Spain and may look for a move that includes a long-term deal, which could see him back in the Premier League.